In Genesis 3, we see that Adam and Eve’s sin leads to God’s curse on humanity and a broken relationship with God. This curse affects both men and women as it brings frustration to where God had meant for them to be most fruitful. This means that although our work will produce results and fruit, it will be a constant source of frustration for us. We also have to recognize the “futility of impermanence,” as very little of our work on Earth will matter in eternity. Although we are designed for work, our fallen world and the curse of humanity keeps us from reaping the benefits of work on Earth. Genesis 3 hints at what Romans 8 explains more fully— that God’s curse is in fact His mercy at work, and through His work there is hope in a future day of permanence and renewal.